Planning for a Tooth Extraction and Implant? Here’s What You Need to Know
If your dentist has recommended a tooth extraction followed by a dental implant, you may be wondering:
How long does the entire process take?
What are the steps involved in a tooth extraction and implant timeline?
How can I save money on dental implants without compromising quality?
The tooth extraction and implant process can take anywhere from 3 to 12 months, depending on factors like healing time, bone health, and whether additional procedures like bone grafting are needed.
The good news? There are ways to speed up recovery, reduce costs, and ensure a successful outcome.
This guide will walk you through the complete timeline for tooth extraction and dental implants, what to expect at each stage, and how to save money on your treatment.
Tooth Extraction and Implant Timeline: Step-by-Step Breakdown
Step 1: Tooth Extraction (Week 1)
✔ Timeframe: 1 appointment (healing time: 2-4 months)
✔ Process: The damaged or infected tooth is removed.
✔ Recovery: Swelling and discomfort last a few days; full healing takes 2-4 months.
✔ Cost: $75 – $500 per tooth
If you have an infection or gum disease, your dentist may delay implant placement to allow proper healing.
Step 2: Bone Grafting (If Needed) – Adds 3-6 Months
✔ Timeframe: Additional 3-6 months if needed
✔ Process: If there’s insufficient bone to support an implant, a bone graft is placed.
✔ Recovery: Bone grafts take several months to integrate with your natural jawbone.
✔ Cost: $250 – $3,000
Not all patients need a bone graft! If your jawbone is healthy, you can move to the next step faster.
Step 3: Dental Implant Placement (After Healing, 3-6 Months Post-Extraction)
✔ Timeframe: 1 appointment (healing time: 3-6 months)
✔ Process: A titanium implant post is surgically placed in the jawbone.
✔ Recovery: Initial healing takes 1-2 weeks, but full osseointegration (fusion with the bone) takes 3-6 months.
✔ Cost: $1,500 – $3,500 per implant
During this healing period, you may receive a temporary denture or bridge.
Step 4: Abutment Placement (After Implant Heals, 1-2 Weeks)
✔ Timeframe: 1 appointment (healing time: 1-2 weeks)
✔ Process: A small connector (abutment) is attached to the implant.
✔ Recovery: Mild soreness for a few days.
✔ Cost: $300 – $500
Some implants come with pre-attached abutments, reducing the timeline.
Step 5: Permanent Crown Placement (Final Step, 4-6 Weeks Later)
✔ Timeframe: 1 appointment (fabrication takes 2-4 weeks)
✔ Process: A custom-made crown is attached to the abutment.
✔ Final Results: Your implant now functions like a natural tooth!
✔ Cost: $1,000 – $3,000 per crown
Once your crown is placed, you can eat, smile, and speak with confidence.
How Long Does the Entire Process Take?
The total time from extraction to a permanent implant varies depending on healing time and whether bone grafting is needed.
Best-Case Scenario (No Bone Grafting): 3-6 months
With Bone Grafting: 6-12 months
If you qualify for immediate implants, you may be able to get your implant placed on the same day as the extraction!
➡ Find top-rated implant specialists at The Patient Marketplace.
How to Save Money on Tooth Extraction and Dental Implants
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan for Instant Discounts
If you don’t have insurance, a dental membership plan can save you 30-60% on extractions, implants, and crowns.
Example Savings With a Membership Plan:
✅ Tooth Extraction: $250 → Membership plan covers 40% ($100), you pay $150
✅ Dental Implant: $3,000 → Membership plan covers 40% ($1,200), you pay $1,800
✔ Low annual or monthly fee ($150-$400/year)
✔ Discounts on extractions, implants, and crowns
✔ No waiting periods or claim denials
➡ Find dentists offering membership plans at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Check If Your Insurance Covers Implants
Many dental insurance plans do NOT cover implants, but some cover the extraction and part of the implant procedure.
Example Coverage:
✅ Tooth Extraction: Insurance covers 50-80%
✅ Bone Graft: Partial coverage if medically necessary
✅ Implant Placement & Crown: Some premium plans cover 30-50%
Call your provider to check your benefits before scheduling your procedure.
➡ Find insurance-friendly dentists at The Patient Marketplace.
3. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing
If you can’t afford to pay for implants upfront, many dentists offer monthly payment options to make treatment more manageable.
CareCredit & LendingClub – 0% financing available for qualified applicants
In-house payment plans – Monthly payments with no interest
Third-party lenders – Low-interest loans for dental procedures
➡ Find financing-friendly dentists on The Patient Marketplace.
Real Patient Story: How Mark Saved Over $4,000 on His Dental Implants
Mark, a 52-year-old sales manager, needed a molar extraction and implant, but the $6,500 price tag at his local dental office was too expensive.
Solution? He found an affordable dental provider through The Patient Marketplace, which offered:
✔ A membership plan with a 40% discount
✔ A financing plan with $199/month payments
✔ Original cost: $6,500
✔ Discounted cost with membership: $3,900
✔ Total savings: $2,600+
➡ Now, Mark has a secure, long-lasting implant without financial stress!
Like Mark, you can find affordable dental implants by choosing the right provider and membership plan!
Where to Find Affordable Tooth Extractions & Implants
Need a dental implant but worried about the cost? The Patient Marketplace connects you with low-cost dental implant providers, membership plans, and financing options.
✅ Compare pricing & find trusted dentists
✅ Save 30-60% on implants & extractions
✅ Find flexible payment plans that fit your budget
